The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings of heavy to very heavy rainfall in several parts of Maharashtra and Goa due to a low-pressure area forming over the east-central Arabian Sea, close to the Konkan and Goa coasts. The system is expected to intensify, with the possibility of developing into a depression, and potentially even a cyclonic storm, depending on evolving weather conditions, reported Business Standard.

A red alert has been issued for Goa through Sunday, May 25, following heavy rainfall in the region. On Thursday, Panjim in North Goa recorded 9 cm of rain. Persistent showers are forecast over the coming days for Goa, Konkan, coastal Karnataka, and Kerala.

In response, Goa’s disaster management authorities have placed emergency services on high alert. Control rooms are operational round the clock in both North and South Goa to respond to any incidents.

Mumbai has been placed under an orange alert for May 23 and 24, with predictions of heavy rain, thunderstorms, and strong winds reaching up to 60 kmph. Raigad and Ratnagiri districts are under a red alert on Friday, with expectations of extremely heavy downpours. Orange alerts have also been issued for Thane, Palghar, Sindhudurg, and the ghat regions of Pune and Satara.

Light showers were recorded in Mumbai on Friday, with overcast skies prevailing throughout the day. In Thane district, severe waterlogging and road damage on the Bhiwandi-Wada stretch caused major traffic disruptions. Road conditions worsened due to ongoing construction and newly formed potholes triggered by the rain.

Meanwhile, in the national capital, the IMD has forecast light rain and thunderstorms for Friday. Wind speeds may reach 40–50 kmph, with isolated gusts up to 60 kmph. Dust storms are also likely during the evening or night hours.

Authorities across affected regions are closely monitoring developments, particularly the potential intensification of the system into a cyclonic storm, and have urged citizens to stay updated with official weather bulletins.

New Delhi : The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red and orange alerts for several regions along India’s western coast, warning of very heavy to extremely heavy rainfall over the next 24 to 48 hours. Areas under alert include South Konkan, Goa, Coastal Karnataka, the Ghat areas of Karnataka, and parts of Madhya Maharashtra.

According to IMD, a low-pressure area has formed over the east-central Arabian Sea, off the South Konkan-Goa coast. The system, currently persisting near the Goa coast, is likely to intensify into a depression. The development of this system is expected to bring intense rainfall to the region, accompanied by strong winds and rough sea conditions.

Senior IMD scientist Dr. R.K. Jenamani stated that all meteorological parameters, including sea surface temperature and wind patterns, indicate that conditions are favourable for the onset of the southwest monsoon over Kerala within the next two to three days. This development would mark the official commencement of India’s monsoon season, which is crucial for agriculture and water resources across the country.

“Satellite imagery and numerical weather models confirm the presence of a robust low-pressure area. If it deepens further, it will likely accelerate monsoon activity across the west coast,” Dr. Jenamani added.

Meanwhile, while the western coastal states prepare for heavy rains, a contrasting weather pattern continues to grip northwestern parts of India. The IMD has forecast a heatwave in West Rajasthan over the next two to three days, with daytime temperatures soaring above 45 degrees Celsius in some areas. The department has also predicted the occurrence of dust storms in the region, which may lead to reduced visibility and health hazards, particularly for those with respiratory conditions.

Authorities in affected regions have been advised to remain vigilant and take precautionary measures, especially in coastal districts where waterlogging, flash floods, and landslides may occur. Fishermen have been warned against venturing into the sea due to rough weather conditions.